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As restrictions ease in several parts of the country, Australian retailers indicate we may well have seen the end of fervent stockpiling.
One of the nation’s largest retail chains, Coles, expect to soon be returning to some form of normalcy by extending trading hours at the majority of its stores.
Approximately 200 supermarkets will start trading at 6am, as confirmed by the franchise spokesperson, Matt Swindells.
Coles Chief Operations Officer, Swindells, said more stock on shelves and improved customer behaviour meant dedicated community hours could also be lifted.
“We all remember the scenes of panic buying and seeing the vulnerable, whether that was the elderly or those who had disabilities, unable to access their staples and particularly unable to get toilet paper,” Mr Swindells was quoted as saying by Today.
“Now those supplies have recovered, toilet paper came off restriction last week, we watched that closely through the weekend and we can open community hour up to everybody and the vulnerable. The elderly will still be able to come in at those times and get whatever products they need in a safe way,” said Swindells.
The extended hours means that high-demand items such as toilet paper, baking supplies and cleaning goods will be more easily accessible to vulnerable shoppers.
“This is about giving to everybody and making sure Coles is accessible for all.
“We are seeing the stores get busier as the easing of restrictions comes down the pipe. Let’s keep the calm confidence but let’s not get complacent,” Swindells said.